The effect of the twin block compared with trigger point injections in patients with masticatory myofascial pain: a pilot study

Objective. The twin block, a novel nerve block that blocks the deep temporal and masseteric branches of the trigeminal nerve, has been shown to be effective in the short-term management of masticatory myofascial pain. However, little is known about its effectiveness in long-term management. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of the twin block in comparison with trigger point injections for the treatment of masticatory myofascial pain. Study Design. Forty-eight patients age 18 to 89 years were randomly assigned to the twin block group (n = 23) or the trigger point injection group (n = 25). The final analysis was based on a total number of 40 patients. Results. Mean numerical pain intensity at baseline was 6.54 +/- 1.90 for the trigger point injection group and 6.47 +/- 2.23 for the twin block group. At the 6th month visit, it was 1.85 +/- 1.85 for the trigger point injection group and 1.85 +/- 1.94 for the twin block group. There were no statistically significant differences in pain intensity between the 2 groups at baseline (P =.64) and at the 6th month follow-up (P =.45). Conclusions. The twin block is effective in the long-term management of masticatory myofascial pain compared with trigger point injections.